The Me-Time Mixtape: Three essential hand-curated links and resources on creative self-care. Carve out some me time this week!

I’m heading off to Saratoga Springs for a weekend wedding. I love weddings – the vows that make me cry, the overflowing flowers, the time to linger with cocktails – and the cake. Yes, please! 🍰 The glorious, sweet cake. It’s almost too beautiful to eat, but I’ll find a way. 😋

This outdoor wedding weekend is all about love and beauty, framed and nurtured by tall trees, acres of grass, and stately columns. On my train ride up there, I’ll take in the fall foliage, the beginning of autumn magic – yellow, red and orange leaves that float down as if to say, “Here’s some sunshine just for you.”🍂

#1 It's Leaf Season 🍁🍃

My faves on this list are Ginkgo and Red Maple. 📨Hit reply and let me know your favorites.

8 Trees that Flaunt Brilliant Fall Color - Arbor Day Blog
Autumn is “leaf season,” nature’s annual color festival. Environmental factors and the genetic makeup of the trees determine the intensity and times of peak color, with factors varying from tree to tree and region to region. Here are 8 of our favorite trees for fall color. These trees will also provide spring color, shade, privacy, and wildlife habitat. Black Tupelo Nyssa sylvatica Called “one of the best and most consistent native trees for fall color” by tree expert Michael Dirr, the black tupelo is a terrific landscaping choice. Displaying various hues of yellow, orange, bright red and purple—often on the same branch—its foliage is a stand-out of the autumn season. Even the distinctive bark, which resembles alligator hide, adds visual and textural interest. And while its blooms may not seem noteworthy, bees will be very appreciative of the presence of this tree, as it serves as an important late-spring food source. Hardiness zones 4-9. Ginkgo Ginkgo biloba Hailed as “undoubtedly one of the most distinct and beautiful of all deciduous trees,” the ginkgo certainly stands out. Unique, fan-shaped leaves turn a stunning yellow color in the fall. It can tolerate many urban conditions including heat, air pollution, salt and confined […]
Arbor Day BlogArbor Day Foundation

#2 The Wong Janice

If I do nothing this year but introduce you to the Wong Janice, I will have done a great service. Her cello playing is exceptional. I've chosen this moody piece, one of my favorites. It strikes me with feelings of solitude more than loneliness. It's lovely. 🎧Enjoy! 🎶

Listen Now

#3 Loosen Up

Here’s some good advice for those of us who need a reminder to loosen the reins and stop taking ourselves so seriously.🙋🏽‍♀️ I love suggestions #2 (allow your body to play) and #3 (create something unusual).

How To Not Take Yourself So Seriously — Take It From Me
Don’t rob yourself of the peace that comes with self-acceptance. Here’s your permission to not take yourself so seriously.
The Good TradeEmily McGowan

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